When sending out direct mailers in the begining of the season,what information should there be.If I know the area and the average lawn size would it be wise to include a quote and/or contract along with a flier.Should there be a S.A.S.E. with it or should I get it personally if they contact me if interested.If this method of advertising works for other people Id like to know how exactly they go about it.
When purchasing a used mower what things should I check for ? Im looking to put together a check list to use everytime I buy used equipment.thanks

Mailers should be direct & to the point with an attention grabbing headline at he top. Think about the junk mail you get.... do you read it all? Or just the top & toss it if it looks like crap you don't need? Yeah me too. So you have like 2 seconds to grab their intrest when they read the top or your in the trash with the other mailers from Bob's carpt cleaning, Dave's auto detailing, & those mortgage refinance offers.....

No a SESE with every mailer would be a complete waste of money, If intersted they'll call & you'll go do an estimate then.

Used mowers:
I would check everything on it out the best you can. The obvious, oil, how many hours are on it, is the deck bent up or rusted through? but tires, spindles, bearings, belts, fuel lines, etc. Anything can break & put you out for a day or 2 at least. So if your getting an older used mower, just count on replacing belts & hoses up front & save yourself a little aggrivation. With that in mind... how old is the machine? How available are parts? where's the nearest dealer? Will it fit in your clients gates? (a 36" mower is wider than 36" at the outside of the deck...) Do you plan to mulch, discharge, or bag the grass? Will that mower do this for you? I could go on & on....

With your direct mailing question, you are going to probably have to send out mailers multiple times to get a potential customer to respond. Are you waiting to start your business until next year? If so, why not start experimenting now and start getting the word out about your business now?